Kent Arnsbarger Steel Drum Artist

Kent's live steel pan performances deliver the lush, vibrant sound of a full Caribbean band, all while requiring minimal setup space. Between sets, Kent offers a unique value-added experience, playing carefully selected pre-recorded Caribbean-style music, providing the ambiance of a DJ while maintaining the tropical vibe.
Audiences often find his steel drum to be a fascinating and rare instrument, and Kent enjoys sharing its story, explaining its origins, and demonstrating how it works. Additionally, his top-tier Bose sound system not only ensures exceptional audio quality but also serves as a conversation piece, making your event even more memorable.

Kent is a highly accomplished and versatile performer, bringing vibrant energy and captivating music to events of all types. In 2022, he showcased his talents on NBC's The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon during the "Show Me Something Good" segment alongside Rick Smith Jr. (known from Dude Perfect). In 2020, Kent was featured on his very own segment on Lakeshore PBS's Eye on the Arts, had a full-feature article in The Beacher newspaper in Long Beach, Indiana, and appeared on numerous news segments across Chicago.
As a classically trained percussionist from Indiana University, Kent integrates his deep musical expertise into every performance. Now a dedicated educator teaching percussion at La Porte, Plymouth and Knox High Schools in Indiana, Kent infuses the sounds of marimbas, vibraphones, and Afro-Cuban rhythms into his steel drum performances, creating an unforgettable musical experience.
Kent has been playing steel drums professionally since 2004, performing at over 2,000 events to date. His extensive experience as a professional musician spans back to 1994, during which he performed with several renowned bands and was even featured in a two-hour interview on WGN Radio in 2004.

* Setup Space: 4x6 feet of dry, flat space. (minimum)
* Power Source: Access to a nearby electrical outlet is preferred. (If unavailable, please inform Kent at least 24 hours in advance to allow for battery setup.)
* Booking and Payment: Kent accepts payment via check, credit card, or cash. While he often books months in advance, last-minute availability may still be possible, so don't hesitate to inquire!

Make your event extraordinary with Kent's unmatched blend of professionalism, musical expertise, and tropical charm. Book now to secure your date!